Zero-Point Workholding System

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Kurt’s DockLock® zero-point workholding system provides the fastest, most accurate and repeatable method for making setup changes on all types of horizontal and vertical machining centers, the company states.

With repeatable positioning accuracy to ±0.0002 inch on a typical part setup, the DockLock system ensures high quality finishes, no scrap parts and substantial setup time reduction, the company notes. For example, a typical workholding setup change requiring 20 minutes using standard methods is done in less than two minutes with the DockLock from Kurt Workholding.

Operation is simple. The DockLock allows the user to locate or remove the workholding from a machine, or move it offline or to another machine and/or back again in just seconds with zero-point accuracy every time, the company adds.

Available in pneumatic and hydraulic models, DockLock systems may be ordered in standard, automatic and heavy duty models for most applications. The hydraulic DockLock Safe 20 model consists of a patented hydraulic actuated locking cylinder that instantly aligns and locks a vise or fixture with a clamp down force of 2800 pounds per locking cylinder (12,456 newtons) and with a retention force of 9000 pounds per locking cylinder (40,033 newtons). For other models, the Safe 30 has a clamp down force of 20,000 newtons, retention force of 60,000 newtons, and the Safe 50 has a clamp down force of 30,000 newtons, retention force of 90,000 newtons.

Once positioned, the workholding remains immobile using the DockLock. A uniquely designed collet connection dampens vibration tendencies in the workholding setup, which is an important design feature.